Reviews

Driving Impression

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Because the 311-horsepower base V6 engine responds heartily, paying so much extra for a V8 provides little benefit in terms of performance. Although the V8 sounds good, added engine weight makes the car feel more nose-heavy.

Lotus engineering originally helped set up the rear-wheel-drive V6 model, resulting in excellent highway composure. Even though the base sedan handles reasonably well, though, even that version feels a bit heavy at the front end.

Brakes aren’t especially firm, either, but steering is way better than might be expected. The variable-ratio electric power steering feels almost like that of an authentic sports sedan: neither unnaturally light nor excessively heavy.

The available air suspension with Continuous Damping Control can be switched from Normal to Sport mode. Though that version can smooth out some rough pavement, ride comfort and handling still fall short of the V6 model.

For driving on urban byways, boulevards and freeways, a G80 with the V6 engine is clearly appropriate.

Fuel economy is reasonable with the V6 and rear-wheel drive, EPA-rated at 18/28 mpg City/Highway, or 22 mpg Combined. All-wheel drive drops the estimate to 16/25 mpg City/Highway. Even less thrifty is the V8, EPA-rated at 15/23 mpg City/Highway, or 18 mpg Combined.

Walk Around

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Design influences from German luxury sedans, including Audi and BMW, can still be discerned in the G80. Though derived from Hyundai’s familiar hexagonal grille, the Genesis version has a smoother, more ornate appearance than those on the other Hyundai models.

Interior Overview

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Cabin space seems to be a little smaller than in some luxury competitors, and the interior isn’t quite as polished. Because of efficient layout, however, four adults can expect a comfortable experience. They can also get in and out of the G80 with comparative ease, and their heads shouldn’t be bothered by the headliner above. A somewhat upright profile and formal roofline translate to a cabin that seems airy rather than constricted.

Dashboard decor consists largely of sharp edges and horizontal straight lines, rather than curves or vertical elements. The center-positioned squarely shaped clock seems out of character. Audio and climate controls are located alongside and below the timepiece. Analog electro-luminescent instruments are used, instead of the screen-based gauges that have become so popular.

Passengers shouldn’t be troubled by noise or vibration, enjoying a quiet ride. Overall, the G80’s interior is on par with sedans that cost many thousands of dollars more.

Measuring 15.3 cubic feet, trunk space isn’t as voluminous as some buyers might prefer, and split-folding back seats are absent.

Evidence of budget constraints can be found only in minor details. For instance, while some luxury sedans use a damping mechanism for the console cover, Genesis designers turned to a simple hinge setup with rubber stops. Certain buttons and switches lack a prestige appearance, and the steering wheel could use a more comfortable grip.

Summary

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Abundant equipment in base form makes the V6-engine G80 an appealing choice for midsize luxury. In terms of comfort and quality, this Genesis sedan gets the elements right, though details could be better. Even if you add an option package, the final price is far lower than the point at which rival models begin.

Driving impressions by Aaron ColeÂ­, The Car Connection. James M. Flammang contributed to this report.

Options include a rearview camera, part of the Premium package that includes a panoramic sunroof, front/rear parking sensors, and ventilated front seats ($4,750). The Ultimate package ($8,950) upgrades further with softer leather seats, genuine wood trim, a head-up display, a 9.2-inch touchscreen with navigation, 17-speaker Lexicon audio, and a power trunk lid.

The Genesis G80 5.0L V8 Ultimate ($54,550) comes with the V8 engine and all the Ultimate features plus LED foglamps, 19-inch wheels, quad exhaust tips, and illuminated door sill plates.

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